News Release
For Release
July 23, 2007
Winnipeg, Manitoba – Manitoba will benefit from an
investment of $13.5 million from Canada’s New Government through
Western Economic Diversification (WD) to establish a world-class innovation
centre, focussed on neurosciences research, at the Siemens Institute
for Advanced Medicine.
The Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board, on behalf
of the Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen’s Privy
Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister
of Western Economic Diversification, made the announcement today.
“Canada’s New Government recognizes that working in partnership
with industry on projects such as the Siemens Institute will fuel growth
in the Canadian life sciences sector,” said Minister Toews. “Today’s
investment of $13.5 million will position Winnipeg as a global leader
in neurosciences research, surgical innovation, and advanced medical
device development.”
Once completed, the Siemens Institute for Advanced Medicine will be
a highly specialized 80,000-square foot facility located at the Health
Sciences Centre (HSC). This funding will help establish neurosciences
research and innovation within the Siemens Institute to enhance the development,
testing and commercialization of new technologies.
“This investment will go a long way to supporting innovation within the
health care sector,” said Dr. Brian Postl, President and Chief Executive
Officer, Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WHRA). “We are proud that
advanced surgical techniques will be developed, defined and perfected, at the
Health Sciences Centre. This investment in the Siemens Institute will lead to
better patient care.”
“On behalf of the Health Sciences Centre Foundation, and all of our
donors who have contributed to the development of the Siemens Institute
for Advanced Medicine, we are delighted that this project is becoming a
reality,” said F. Lynn Bishop, Chair, Board of Directors, Health
Sciences Centre Foundation.
This investment is a clear example of the Government of Canada’s
commitment to its strategic plan for science and technology – Mobilizing
Science and Technology to Canada’s Advantage. Institutions
at the forefront of scientific development and technological achievement,
such as the Siemens Institute, create high-quality, knowledge-intensive
jobs that make our economy more competitive and productive.
“We
are very pleased with this new investment in the Siemens Institute for
Advanced Medicine,” said Andy Hind, Vice President of Siemens Medical
Solutions. “It solidifies an already strong partnership with the Winnipeg
Regional Health Authority and will foster opportunities to extend and enhance
the quality of life for all Canadians.”
WD previously provided funding to
the Siemens Institute for Advanced Medicine with $9.5 million in 2003 for
equipment purchases, and $3.5 million in 2005 under the Winnipeg Partnership
Agreement, for the building construction that is underway and scheduled for completion
by late 2008.
The Winnipeg Regional Health Authority’s mission is to promote and protect
health and well-being by delivering and managing health services in the Winnipeg
region. With an annual budget of over $1.6 billion and more than 27,000 staff
in the region, it is the largest employer in the province.
Western Economic Diversification Canada is a department of the Government
of Canada that works in partnership with the provinces, industry associations
and communities to stimulate and encourage diversification of the western
economy, as well as to represent the interests of the West in Ottawa.
Media may contact:
David Meister
Communications Officer
Western Economic Diversification Canada
204-983-0789
Sally Flintoft
President and Chief Executive Officer
Health Sciences Centre Foundation
Ph: 787-4391
